Meet Our Girl Gang.

ANNIE MCDONALD

How long have you been hairdressing? Tell us a little about your career so far?

Growing up the Sunshine Coast, I started my hairdressing career when I was 15 years old. I'd worked for some really lovely salons on the coast, as well as some pretty intense, high end ones. With a deep and forever growing knowledge of colour, I'm at a point where I can really express my skills and experiment comfortably. I connected with Mikki upon moving to Brisbane in 2016 through social media and mutual friends. Since being a part of the team at Mikki Auld Hairdressing I've definitely found my groove. I'm a pretty easy going, friendly character and the clients we attract have a similar vibe which makes a very relaxed salon experience.

Favourite places to eat/drink/hangout in Brisbane?

I love having a coffee at Neighbourhood in Bardon. Just like our adorable salon- it gives you the feeling of being in a cozy home, and all of the staff are such sweethearts. Another place would have to be HaiHai in Paddington. Having previously worked there, it's like a second home. The staff are fun, food is bomb and the playlist always has some bangers. I also just like to go there to pester the staff and peer pressure them into knock off beers.

What are your go-to hair products?

Mr Smith. Leave-in : just like skin, I believe that hair needs to be moisturised daily. It's not too heavy, it's great for all hair types and is super easy to use (I use it religiously). Hairspray: after being terrified of overusing hairspray (no one likes that sticky/stiff hair feeling) Jordy has taught me to go crazy. The Mr.Smith Hairspray is so lightweight and friendly on the hair, too much could never be enough. Shiny, bouncy hair that lasts all day- what more could a gal want?

What do you specialise in when it comes to your craft?

Curly hair is my best friend. It fascinates me. I have it, I know how it works and how it doesn't work. We have a pretty great relationship. Notorious for not ever doing what it's told, I always seem to find a way to tame it and I enjoy teaching clients how to love and appreciate their curls.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

That's a tough question. I'm a bit of a floater and my life has changed drastically in the last 5 years so I can't even imagine. What I hope to be doing is something with printmaking whether it be a hobby or a second career. I also hope to be frolicking around the world somewhere doing something crazy!

What are you listening to at the moment?

From Joy Division, Ceremony and The Cure to MGMT, Mac Demarco (what a honey) and Unknown Mortal Orchestra- I am a very random person when it comes to my playlists. If you saw my Spotify you would be left feeling very puzzled....probably even concerned.

Dream holiday destination?

At the moment, (like every other Aussie) I really want to go to Japan. Their culture and morals just seems so lovely and who wouldn't want to see Studio Ghibli? Other than that, anywhere cold, I love the cold- layers for days.

See some of Annie's work here - @annie_mikkiauldhair

JORDANA SOUTHWELL

How long have you been hairdressing? Tell us a little about your career so far?

My family moved to Melbourne when I was 13 years old and that's when my passion for hairdressing really began as I felt so inspired by Melbourne's creative scene. During the five years that I've been hairdressing, I've been fortunate enough to work for and alongside some of the industries finest. I've also worked at events such as the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival and for Miss Universe Australia and have styled some of Australia's top influencers; Tammy Hembrow, Steph Claire Smith, Shani Grimmond, Ashy Bines and Hannah Polites.

Favourite places to eat/drink/hangout in Brisbane?

When I'm not in the salon you can find me relaxing with friends, having a wine at Southbank or with my family on the Sunshine Coast. I've actually just moved back to Queensland so there's still a lot for me to explore.

What are your go-to hair products?

When it comes to my absolute favourite go to products, there are a few staples that I couldn't live without. I believe everyone needs a great serum to protect their hair from heat styling and Queensland's harsh sun. Mr. Smith serum is such a great choice because not only will it protect your hair from heat but it's packed with antioxidants which will promote stronger and healthier hair. Another favourite would definitely be dry shampoo, this I consider an absolute MUST HAVE! Dry shampoo will keep the hair looking light and fresh and will also add texture and create volume.

What do you specialise in when it comes to your craft?

Creating the perfect "bronde" is a definite favourite but I'm also just really inspired by colours that will compliment my client, are lived in and easy to maintain.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

My other great love is makeup and I'm really hoping to pursue that interest further and eventually have it accompany my hairdressing career. Along with broadening my skill set I'd like to be involved in more editorial work both locally and (fingers crossed) internationally. Travel is also high up on the list and hopefully someday in the near future, I'll work and live abroad in London for a year.

What are you listening to at the moment?

There is such a wide range of music that I listen to but my ultimate faves are, INXS (ah, Michael.), Jack River, Cub Sport, Oasis, Hockey Dad and DMA's.

Dream holiday destination?

My idea of a dream holiday is somewhere cold and ideally covered in snow, so naturally the next place on my bucket list is Canada!

See some of Jordana's work here - @jordana_mikkiauldhair

MIKKI AULD

How long have you been hairdressing? Tell us a little about your career so far?

I've been hairdressing 10 years come November and during that time it's been a huge whirlwind of ups and downs, round and rounds and wonderful experiences. Nothing has come easy but having had some of the industries best as my employers, mentors and trainers, I've had some great opportunities come my way. An unforgettable time would be that I spent in London, living and working within the creative and vibrant borough of Hackney. I feel as though I really developed my aesthetic and style as a hairdresser during this time and I still draw so much of my inspiration from that period in my life. Fast forward a few years, I've had my work published in both national and international publications, was a finalist for the Australian Fame Team and have been named one of Brisbane's best hairdressers. It's been a big few years!

Favourite places to eat/drink/hangout in Brisbane?

For a drink with friends, I'm a big fan of Remy's in Paddington and for a bite to eat, Caravanserai in West End. You also can't go past New Farm Park on beautiful, sunday afternoon.

What are your go-to hair products?

I've worked with countless brands throughout my career and when it came to choosing my own for the salon, I really couldn't go past Mr. Smith. There are a few things I really care about when it comes to haircare products, they must be made of natural ingredients plus cruelty free and uncomplicated but high performing. I'm not about loading people up with products they'll never use, nor need and I like to keep it simple. I personally use the Mr. Smith leave in, religiously. It hydrates, detangles, gives shine and lustre and won't weigh the hair down, plus, it'll protect your hair from UV and environmental impurities. If I'm doing editorial work or want to create more form in the hair, I reach for foundation. It's a great styling tool and it's filled with natural goodness. Packed with essential fatty acids and vitamin C, it will give you volume and body, plus plenty of nourishment, all in one hit.

What do you specialise in when it comes to your craft?

I like to keep colours low maintenance and natural for my clients, it's better for the hair and means they can push appointments out further. I specialise in future proof blondes and balayage and particularly love creating coppers and strawberry blondes.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

There's a lot more that I hope to do with our brand and am looking forward to exploring that further, so stay tuned. Outside of work, I'd like to build a little cabin in the hinterland with my partner and perhaps live in France for 6 months.

What are you listening to at the moment?

I'm a creature of habit and these ones, I always find myself going back to. Patti Smith, T.Rex, The Cramps, Helen Humes and Townes Van Zandt.

Dream holiday destination?

It changes daily because I want to go everywhere but lately, Italy, Mexico and India. Oh, and Iceland.